Transport communication management

ABSTRACT

Methods and systems for communicating information are disclosed. An example method can comprise receiving information at a first device based on a first protocol. The information can be translated, at the first device, for communication to a second device based on a second protocol. A determination can be made as to whether the information matches a criterion associated with a transportation device. The information can be provided to the second device based on the second protocol and a determination that the information matches the criterion.

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED PATENT APPLICATION

This application is a continuation of U.S. Non-Provisional applicationSer. No. 14/315,239 filed Jun. 25, 2014, which claims priority to U.S.Provisional Application No. 61/839,090 filed Jun. 25, 2013, which areherein incorporated by reference in their entireties.

SUMMARY

It is to be understood that both the following general description andthe following detailed description are exemplary and explanatory onlyand are not restrictive, as claimed. Provided are methods and systemsfor communicating information. An example method can comprise receivinginformation at a first device based on a first protocol. The informationcan be translated, at the first device, for communication to a seconddevice based on a second protocol. A determination can be made as towhether the information matches a criterion associated with atransportation device. The information can be provided to the seconddevice based on the second protocol and a determination that theinformation matches the criterion.

In another aspect, an example method can comprise receiving informationat a transportation device. The information can be provided to a firstnetwork of the transportation device based on a first protocol. Theinformation can be analyzed, at a component of the first network, basedon at least one of a security rule and an update rule. The informationcan be provided to a system element of the transportation device basedon the analyzing of the information.

In another aspect, an example device (e.g., transportation device) cancomprise a system element configured to assist in navigation, a firstnetwork configured to communicate based on a first protocol, and asecond network configured to communicate based on a second protocol. Thesecond network can be communicatively coupled to the system element. Theexample device can comprise a communication management devicecommunicatively coupled to the first network and the second network. Thecommunication management device can be configured to translateinformation between the first network and the second network based on atleast one of a security rule and an update rule.

Additional advantages will be set forth in part in the description whichfollows or may be learned by practice. The advantages will be realizedand attained by means of the elements and combinations particularlypointed out in the appended claims.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute apart of this specification, illustrate embodiments and together with thedescription, serve to explain the principles of the methods and systems:

FIG. 1 is a block diagram illustrating various aspects of an exemplarysystem in which the present methods and systems can operate;

FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating an exemplary system forcommunicating information;

FIG. 3 is a flowchart illustrating an exemplary method for communicatinginformation;

FIG. 4 is a flowchart illustrating another exemplary method forcommunicating information; and

FIG. 5 is a block diagram illustrating an exemplary computing device inwhich the present methods and systems can operate.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Before the present methods and systems are disclosed and described, itis to be understood that the methods and systems are not limited tospecific methods, specific components, or to particular implementations.It is also to be understood that the terminology used herein is for thepurpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended tobe limiting.

As used in the specification and the appended claims, the singular forms“a,” “an,” and “the” include plural referents unless the context clearlydictates otherwise. Ranges may be expressed herein as from “about” oneparticular value, and/or to “about” another particular value. When sucha range is expressed, another embodiment includes from the oneparticular value and/or to the other particular value. Similarly, whenvalues are expressed as approximations, by use of the antecedent“about,” it will be understood that the particular value forms anotherembodiment. It will be further understood that the endpoints of each ofthe ranges are significant both in relation to the other endpoint, andindependently of the other endpoint.

“Optional” or “optionally” means that the subsequently described eventor circumstance may or may not occur, and that the description includesinstances where said event or circumstance occurs and instances where itdoes not.

Throughout the description and claims of this specification, the word“comprise” and variations of the word, such as “comprising” and“comprises,” means “including but not limited to,” and is not intendedto exclude, for example, other components, integers or steps.“Exemplary” means “an example of” and is not intended to convey anindication of a preferred or ideal embodiment. “Such as” is not used ina restrictive sense, but for explanatory purposes.

Disclosed are components that can be used to perform the disclosedmethods and systems. These and other components are disclosed herein,and it is understood that when combinations, subsets, interactions,groups, etc. of these components are disclosed that while specificreference of each various individual and collective combinations andpermutation of these may not be explicitly disclosed, each isspecifically contemplated and described herein, for all methods andsystems. This applies to all aspects of this application including, butnot limited to, steps in disclosed methods. Thus, if there are a varietyof additional steps that can be performed it is understood that each ofthese additional steps can be performed with any specific embodiment orcombination of embodiments of the disclosed methods.

The present methods and systems may be understood more readily byreference to the following detailed description of preferred embodimentsand the examples included therein and to the Figures and their previousand following description.

As will be appreciated by one skilled in the art, the methods andsystems may take the form of an entirely hardware embodiment, anentirely software embodiment, or an embodiment combining software andhardware aspects. Furthermore, the methods and systems may take the formof a computer program product on a computer-readable storage mediumhaving computer-readable program instructions (e.g., computer software)embodied in the storage medium. More particularly, the present methodsand systems may take the form of web-implemented computer software. Anysuitable computer-readable storage medium may be utilized including harddisks, CD-ROMs, optical storage devices, or magnetic storage devices.

Embodiments of the methods and systems are described below withreference to block diagrams and flowchart illustrations of methods,systems, apparatuses and computer program products. It will beunderstood that each block of the block diagrams and flowchartillustrations, and combinations of blocks in the block diagrams andflowchart illustrations, respectively, can be implemented by computerprogram instructions. These computer program instructions may be loadedonto a general purpose computer, special purpose computer, or otherprogrammable data processing apparatus to produce a machine, such thatthe instructions which execute on the computer or other programmabledata processing apparatus create a means for implementing the functionsspecified in the flowchart block or blocks.

These computer program instructions may also be stored in acomputer-readable memory that can direct a computer or otherprogrammable data processing apparatus to function in a particularmanner, such that the instructions stored in the computer-readablememory produce an article of manufacture including computer-readableinstructions for implementing the function specified in the flowchartblock or blocks. The computer program instructions may also be loadedonto a computer or other programmable data processing apparatus to causea series of operational steps to be performed on the computer or otherprogrammable apparatus to produce a computer-implemented process suchthat the instructions that execute on the computer or other programmableapparatus provide steps for implementing the functions specified in theflowchart block or blocks.

Accordingly, blocks of the block diagrams and flowchart illustrationssupport combinations of means for performing the specified functions,combinations of steps for performing the specified functions and programinstruction means for performing the specified functions. It will alsobe understood that each block of the block diagrams and flowchartillustrations, and combinations of blocks in the block diagrams andflowchart illustrations, can be implemented by special purposehardware-based computer systems that perform the specified functions orsteps, or combinations of special purpose hardware and computerinstructions.

In an aspect, the present disclosure relates to communication with amobile network. In an aspect, the mobile network can be internal to avehicle, such as an aircraft, train, automobile, boat, and the like. Inan aspect, the mobile network can send and receive information accordingto a variety of communication methods. For example, the communicationmethods can comprise one or more of satellite, cellular, infrared,ACARS, short message service (SMS), 802.x, fiber optic, microwave, radiofrequency, high frequency radio wave (e.g., 3-30 MHz), very highfrequency radio wave (e.g., 30-300 MHz), ultra high frequency radio wave(e.g., 300 MHz-3 GHz), other regulated and unregulated radio frequencyspectra used to convey signals, copper wire, and the like. In an aspect,the communication methods each adhere to one or more specificcommunication protocols and/or standards and, as such, use specializedtransceivers to send/receive information between the mobile network andany system desirous of communicating with the mobile network. In anaspect, the mobile network can comprise one or more CommunicationsTraffic Management Unit (CTMU). The CTMU can be configured for receivinginformation according to one or more of the communication methods andfor translating the received information for further communicationwithin the mobile network according to a common protocol. For example,the common protocol can comprise an internet protocol (IP), transmissioncontrol protocol (TCP), Aeronautical Radio Incorporated (ARINC) standardradio transmission protocols, time division multiple access (TDMA) basedprotocols, code division multiple access (CDMA) based protocols, acombination thereof (e.g., TCP/IP), and the like. Similarly, the CTMUcan be configured for transmitting information from the mobile networkaccording to one or more of the communication methods. In an aspect, theCTMU can receive information from the mobile network according to acommon protocol and can translate the received information fortransmission according to one or more of the communication methods.

In an aspect, the present disclosure further relates to communicationswithin the mobile network. The mobile network can comprise one or moredevices configured to perform a variety of functions and/or to provide avariety of services. The devices can include, for example, sensors,communication devices, computing devices, avionics equipment, vehiclecomponents (e.g., engines, ventilation systems, etc. . . . ), and thelike. In an aspect, the functions and/or services can relate to theoperation of the vehicle. The functions and/or services can exchangeinformation with devices both inside and outside the vehicle. Forexample, the devices can comprise a flight data acquisition unit (FDAU),aircraft condition monitoring system (ACMS), enhanced ground proximitywarning system (EGPWS), traffic collision avoidance system (TCAS),terrain awareness and warning system (TAWS), automatic dependentsurveillance-broadcast (ADS-B) device, flight management system (FMS),aircraft communication addressing and reporting system (ACARS),electronic flight bag (EFB), onboard navigation system (ONS), primaryflight display (PFD), navigation displays, any device connected to anaircraft data bus (e.g., ARINC based device, MIL-STD-1553 based device),data loader devices, and the like.

In an aspect, devices internal to the mobile network (internal devices)can be updated through software updates or other reconfigurationinformation. Computing devices external (external devices) to the mobilenetwork can be used to provide software updates, reconfigurationinformation, operational information, and other information to themobile network.

The external devices and the internal devices can communicate through avariety of protocols and standards. Accordingly, the CTMU can beconfigured to provide communication and operability amongst the internaldevices and between the internal devices and external devices. The CTMUcan enable internal device updates, information exchange, and othercommunication, while at the same time protecting the internal devicesfrom unauthorized communication. Those skilled in the art willappreciate that present methods may be used in systems that employ bothdigital and analog equipment. One skilled in the art will appreciatethat provided herein is a functional description and that the respectivefunctions can be performed by software, hardware, or a combination ofsoftware and hardware.

FIG. 1 is a block diagram illustrating various aspects of an exemplarysystem 100 in which the present methods and systems can operate. In oneaspect, the system 100 can comprise a mobile network 102. The mobilenetwork 102 can be contained within a vehicle configured to transport(e.g., carry, convey, travel) people and/or items to and from a varietyof locations. For example, the vehicle can comprise an airborne vehicle(e.g., airplane, helicopter, blimp), terrestrial vehicle (e.g., car,truck, motorcycle), space vehicle (e.g., satellite, space shuttle,rocket), and/or watercraft vehicle (e.g., boat, ship, submarine,hovercraft). The vehicle can be a manned or unmanned vehicle.

In one aspect, the system 100 can comprise one or more remote devices104. For example, the remote devices 104 can comprise remote servers,monitoring devices (e.g., weather station), portable computing devices(e.g., tablet device, laptop device), smart devices (e.g., smart phones,smart watch, smart accessory), and the like. The remote devices 104 canbe configured to communicate to the mobile network 102 through a varietyof communication links 105. The communication links 105 can comprisewireless communication links (e.g., radio frequency, satellite,microwave, high frequency radio wave, very high frequency radio wave,ultra high frequency radio wave, and other regulated and unregulatedradio frequency spectra used to convey signals) and/or physicalcommunication links (e.g., fiber optic cable, coaxial cable, Ethernetcable, copper wire).

In an aspect, one or more of the remote devices 104 can provideinformation for updating and/or configuring one or more systems (e.g.,devices, elements, and/or components) in the mobile network 102,information for display on one or more systems in the mobile network102, information for processing by one or more systems in the mobilenetwork 102, combinations thereof, and the like. For example, the remotedevices 104 can provide software and/or firmware updates for one or moresystems of the mobile network 102. As a further example, the remotedevices 104 can provide transport information to one or more systems ofthe mobile network 102. For example, transport information can compriseweather information, fuel information, location information (e.g.,speed, direction, altitude, geographic positioning system data), trafficinformation, route information (e.g., updates to travel route),entertainment information (e.g., audio data, movie data, streamingcontent), regulatory information (e.g., customs, TSA, FAA), cargoinformation (e.g., cargo temperature, cargo pressure, or otherenvironmental information), status information (e.g., aircraft orcomponent performance or fault reporting information), combinationsthereof, and the like. Transport information can comprise vehiclecomponent health information (e.g., BITE (Built-in Test Equipment)status), real-time component data (e.g., speed, altitude, direction,position, other system data), maintenance information, vehicle log bookentries, safety information, handshake information, emergencyinformation, video feed of life-science cargo, and/or the like.

In one aspect, the mobile network 102 can comprise a communicationstraffic management unit (CTMU) 106. The CTMU 106 can be configured tomanage external communications to and from the mobile network 102. TheCTMU 106 can also be configured to manage internal communications amongelements of the mobile network 102. As an illustration, a CTMU 106 in anaircraft can manage communication between the aircraft, the aircraft'scomponent parts, and the rest of the airline/regulatory system while theaircraft is in the air and on the ground. The CTMU 106 can determinepriority of communication, availability of communications links, cost ofsaid links, and the like. For example, priority of communication can bedetermined based one or more priority rules (e.g., cost priority)specified by a user. The priority rules can be based on the value of thedata to a user or the user's customer, the size of the data package tobe transmitted, the mobile network's 102 location, phase of travel(e.g., phase of flight), the real-time cost (e.g., cost at a givenlocation or phase of travel) of the transmission links that the mobilenetwork 202 is configured to use (e.g., Wi-Fi, Cellular, Satellite,ACARS, Bluetooth, NFC), and the like. The CTMU 106 can also managecommunication traffic across the appropriate network without airborne orground crew intervention. Additionally, the CTMU 106 can facilitate theuse of legacy components and existing FAA (Federal AviationAdministration) approved input/output channels that are currentlycertified on avionics components on the aircraft. For example, the CTMU106 can be configured to translate between information according toprotocols of legacy components and existing FAA approved input/outputchannels and information according to other updated protocols, protocolsused outside the context of avionics, common network protocols, and/orthe like.

In one aspect, the CTMU 106 can comprise an external communication unit108. The external communication unit 108 can be configured to transmitand receive communication to and from the remote devices 104. Forexample, the external communication unit 108 can be coupled to one ormore transceivers. The external communication unit 108 can be configuredto receive wireless and/or hardline communications through a variety ofcommunications standards and protocols, such as IEEE 802.x, 3G, 4G, HF,VHF, and the like. As an illustration, the CTMU 106 can facilitateupload/download of information between the remote devices 104 and themobile network 102 in all phases of travel (e.g., parked, loading, takeoff, flight, landing, etc. . . . ) for all types of transmission (e.g.,software LRU updates, datalink communications, vehicle performance data,and the like).

In one aspect, the external communication unit 108 can be configured toselect a particular communication link 105 for communication based onone or more factors, conditions, and/or the like. For example, theexternal communication unit 108 can select the particular communicationlink 105 based on the cost of transmitting information using theparticular communication link 105. The selection process can beillustrated as follows. A certain amount of data (e.g., 10 kilobytes oflow-priority data, such as for replenishment of routine service items)can be scheduled for transmission from the mobile network 102 to aground station. A mobile network 102 may have the capability oftransmitting data via an ACARS VHF communication link, a public WiFicommunication link, or a ground cellular communications link. Based oncost rules (e.g., the public WiFi is free, ACARS costs $2/kilobyte,Cellular costs $1/Megabyte), and the urgency of the data, the CTMU 106can decide whether to transmit the data or to hold the data until theexternal communication unit 108 detects a communication option at alesser cost (e.g., WiFi hot spot or other communication option at anarrival gate). If no such option exists within a pre-determined timewindow, the CTMU 106 can then attempt to select another communicationoption (e.g., ground cellular path) as the next best cost option. Other,more expensive communication options (such as, ACARS) can be avoided or,as an alternative, reserved until the information becomes time critical.

As another example, the external communication unit 108 can select theparticular communication link 105 based on the location of the mobilenetwork 102. As an example, a mobile network 102 can be configured tocommunicate on the ground using Wi-Fi or cellular, and during travel(e.g., in the air) using cellular or satellite, such as Air to Ground(ATG) cellular or satellite. If the desire is to transmit a customer'scritical package information (e.g., 1 Megabyte of temperature andhumidity data at a certain frequency) while in the transit, the externalcommunication unit 108 can determine the mobile network 102 position(e.g., Domestic US) and verify that both cellular and satellitecommunication links are available. Based on cost rules (e.g., ATGCellular $3/Megabyte versus Satellite $7/Megabyte), the externalcommunication unit 108 can select the communication link 105 configuredfor cellular communication and send the information based on a firsttime window (e.g., every 15 minutes). If cellular communication is notavailable, the external communication unit 108 can select thecommunication link 105 for satellite communication and send theinformation based on a second time window (e.g., every 30 minutes). Ifthe aircraft is flying internationally, the external communication unit108 can select the communication link 105 configured for satellitecommunication, and transmit the data every hour (e.g., since satellitemay be the only means of transmitting the data over large bodies ofwater). The intent of the analysis is to provide an optimum cost (e.g.,lowest cost for available given certain constraints) throughout theduration of travel (e.g., flight) regardless of the communication link105 used. As a further example, the external communication unit 108 canselect the particular communication link 105 based on the availabilityof the particular communication link 105.

In one aspect, the mobile network 102 can comprise a first network 110.In another aspect, the mobile network 102 can comprise a second network111. The first network 110 and/or second network 111 can receiveinformation from the CTMU 106 and provide the information to a varietyof elements (e.g., software modules, hardware devices) within the mobilenetwork 102. The first network 110 and/or second network 111 cancomprise network adapters, switches, routers, and the like connectedthrough wireless links (e.g., radio frequency, satellite) and/orphysical links (e.g., fiber optic cable, coaxial cable, Ethernet cable).In one aspect, the first network 110 can communicate based on a firstcommunication protocol. In another aspect, the second network 111 cancommunicate based on a second communication protocol. In an aspect, thefirst communication protocol can be the same as the second communicationprotocol. For example, the first network 110 and/or the second network111 can communicate using a protocol specific to the vehicle. In anaspect, the first communication protocol and/or second communicationprotocol can comprise one or more of internet protocol, transmissioncontrol protocol (TCP), internet control message protocol (ICMP), userdatagram protocol (UDP), Aircraft Communications and Reporting System(ACARS) protocol, ARINC protocols, or other similar protocol.

In one aspect, the CTMU 106 can comprise an internal communication unit112. The internal communication unit 112 can be configured to receiveinformation from and/or provide communications to the first network 110and the second network 111. The internal communication unit 112 can becommunicatively coupled to one or more internal elements 114 of thevehicle through the first network 110 and/or second network 111. In oneaspect, the internal communication unit 112 can translate acommunication received on the first network 110 to a communicationreceived on the second network 111. Similarly, the internalcommunication unit 112 can translate a communication received on thesecond network 111 to a communication on the first network 110. Theinternal elements 114 can comprise devices and/or software modulesinternal to (e.g., located in, attached to) the vehicle. For example,the internal elements 114 can comprise a line replaceable unit, a travelcontrol system (e.g., flight management system), vehicle monitoringsystem (e.g., aircraft condition monitoring system), travel informationmanagement device (e.g., electronic flight bag), and the like.

In one aspect, the CTMU 106 can comprise an update unit 116 configuredto retrieve and/or receive updates, such as software updates, forinternal elements 114 of the mobile network 102. The update unit 116 canbe configured to provide the updates to the internal elements 114 of themobile network 102. The update unit 116 can be configured to provideupdates according to one or more update rules. For example, the updaterules can specify conditions for updating the internal elements 114. Theupdate rules can specify times, locations, system status, type ofupdate, remote device 104 providing the update, and/or other similarconditions. For example, the update unit 116 can provide updates to someinternal elements 114 while the mobile network is traveling and to otherinternal elements 114 while the mobile network is located at a base,port, or other station. As an example, the update unit 116 can beconfigured to update a travel control system (e.g., an internal element114 which is critical to safety of operation, such as flight) based onor more conditions, such as an operation status (e.g., in flight, not inflight) of the mobile network 102, authentication status of the externaldevice requesting the update, and user (e.g., maintenance technician)status (e.g., onboard the vehicle of the mobile network 102 ready toaccept the update). As a further example, for a less-critical element,such as an internal element 114 configured for vehicle monitoring, theupdate unit 116 can update the internal element 114 during any phase oftravel (e.g., flight) as long as the remote device 104 has beenauthenticated.

In one aspect, the update unit 116 can provide an update to an internalelement 114 and/or perform an update on an internal element 114. Theupdate unit 116 can be configured to run one or more diagnostic tests onthe updates. The diagnostic test can be performed at the update unit 116or at the internal element 114 receiving the update. For example, adiagnostic test can verify program functionality, data veracity, and/orthe like of one or more of the internal elements 114. In one aspect, theupdate unit 116 can provide a notification indicating the update status(e.g., complete, failure). For example, the update unit 116 can providethe notification to a remote device 104, such as a device that requestedand/or provided the update to the CTMU 106.

In one aspect, the update unit 116 can be configured to manage completeand partial updates received by the mobile network 102. For example, theupdate unit 116 can receive transmissions of complete and/or partialupdates (e.g., a set of data fragments associated with an update file).The CTMU 106 can accept and manage partial updates or othercommunications based on a variety of factors, such as signalinterruption, phase of operation, loss, acquisition, cost of anadditional communication mode, prioritization of the various packets ofinformation in queue, and the like. As an illustration, a partial updatecan occur via coaxial cable connection while the mobile network 102 isat a specific location, such as a gate, hangar, garage, port, and thelike. At departure time, the coaxial cable can be disconnected beforethe full update is received by the mobile network 202. After beginningtravel, the mobile network 102 can enter travel space (e.g., airspace,zone, channel) where sufficient bandwidth (e.g., VHF bandwidth) isavailable to resume the upload process. The CTMU 106 can validate thedata fragments of the partial update. The CTM U 106 can assemble thedata packets as the packets are received. The CTMU 106 can validate tointernal devices (e.g., security unit 118, internal elements 114) and/orexternal devices (e.g., remote devices 104) that the update is complete,error free, and/or free of introduced risks such as viruses, Trojans, orother malicious content.

In one aspect, validation of updates can be based on a variety offactors, such as the type of update and how the CTMU 106 is programmedto receive updates. For instance, the first transmission of an updatemay contain a number of parts that will be transmitted along withchecksum values for the total transmission and/or for each part of thetransmission. The CTMU 106 and/or the remote device 104 sending theupdate can keep track of the start and stop of transmission of each partof the update. If a communication link 105 is disconnected andreestablished, the CTMU 106 and remote device 104 can be configured toverify that CTMU 106 and the remote device 104 are synchronized beforecontinuing transmission of the update. Upon completion of transmissionof each part of the update and the completion of the entire update, atotal checksum can be transmitted from the remote device 104 and usedfor verification by the CTMU 106. Once the transmission is fullyuploaded. CTMU 106 can be configured to validate (e.g., based on virussoftware or the like) that there are no risks to update an internalelement 114. The CTMU 106 can store all or part of the updates and/orother content until such time as the information may be safelytransmitted or otherwise acted upon (e.g., installed on an internalelement 114). For example, the CTMU 106 can be configured to perform aperiodic (e.g., a daily, bi-weekly, weekly, monthly) update to aninternal element 114 in accordance with a defined schedule.

In one aspect, the CTMU 106 can comprise a security unit 118 configuredto prevent (e.g., block) unauthorized communication to one or more ofthe internal elements 114. The security unit 118 can be configured toblock communication according to one or more security rules. Forexample, The security rules can instruct the security unit 118 to allowor block communication according to the type of communication, time ofcommunication, substance of the communication, intended recipient ofcommunication, source (e.g., by user, software, and/or device) ofcommunication, and the like. For example, certain communications can beblocked while the mobile network 102 is moving, is in a certaingeographic location, above a specified altitude, has a specified systemstatus (e.g., low fuel, engine failure), and the like. Further methodsto manage security can comprise certificate management, specifichardware address or identification protocols (e.g., MAC address) orother similar embodiments.

The security unit 118 can be configured to address and prevent errors,malicious content, and/or unintended disclosure of secure information insome or all phases of operation. The security unit 118 can be configuredto verify the identity of remote devices 104 and internal elements 114,whether operated by the owner of the mobile network 102, a serviceprovider, an equipment manufacturer, a regulatory entity, a crewmember,or other entity or person connected to the mobile network 102. Forexample, the security unit 118 can be configured to perform data packetmanagement and validation. As an illustration, the security unit 118 canbe configured to manage and validate passwords, encryption,bit-checking, cyclic redundancy checks, self-testing and reportingmechanisms (e.g., aviation example would be a successful “return toservice” self-test of an EGPWS computer).

In one aspect, the security unit 118 can prevent communication from oneof the first network 110 and second network 111 to the other of thefirst network 110 and second network 111. For example, the internalelements 114 on the first network 110 can comprise system elementscritical to vehicle operation, such as flight control systems, enginemanagement systems, and the like. The internal elements 114 on thesecond network 111 can comprise, for example, system elements that arenot critical to vehicle operation, such as entertainment systems,passenger devices, and the like. Some of the passengers may not beauthorized to provide communication to the system elements. Accordingly,the security unit 118 can prevent communication from the system elementson the second network 111 to the system elements on the first network110. For example, the security unit 118 can prevent communication fromthe system elements on the second network 111 that are not critical tovehicle operation to system elements on the first network 110 that arecritical to system operation.

In another aspect, the security unit 118 can prevent unauthorizedcommunication from a remote device 104 to one or more internal elements114. For example, the remote device 104 may not be authorized to send aparticular type of information to some or all of the internal elements114. As a further example, the remote device 104 may be authorized toprovide communication to an internal element 114 on the second network111 but not authorized to provide communication to an internal element(e.g., system element) 114 on the first network 110. Accordingly, thesecurity unit 118 can prevent unauthorized communication to the internalelements 114 on the first network 110.

FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating an exemplary system 200 forcommunicating information. In one aspect, the system 200 can comprise amobile network 202. The mobile network 202 can be contained within avehicle that can be configured to transport (e.g., carry, convey,travel) people and/or items to and from a variety of locations. Forexample, the vehicle can comprise an airborne vehicle (e.g., airplane,helicopter, blimp), terrestrial vehicle (e.g., car, truck, motorcycle),space vehicle (e.g., satellite, space shuttle, rocket), and/orwatercraft vehicle (e.g., boat, ship, submarine, hovercraft).

In one aspect, the system 200 can comprise a first network 204. Thesystem 200 can also comprise a second network 206. The first network 204and/or the second network 206 can comprise network adapters, switches,routers, and the like connected through wireless links (e.g., radiofrequency, satellite) and/or physical links (e.g., fiber optic cable,coaxial cable, Ethernet cable). As an illustration, the first network204 can communicate with a first communication protocol. In anotheraspect, the second network 206 can communicate with a secondcommunication protocol. For example, the first network 204 cancommunicate using a protocol specific to the mobile network 202, such asAircraft Communications Addressing and Reporting System (ACARS) basedprotocols or other similar protocols used in an airborne vehicle. Thesecond communication protocol can comprise internet protocol or othersimilar protocol.

In one aspect, the mobile network 202 can comprise one or morecommunication units 208. For example, the communication units 208 can beconfigured to communicate according to a variety of communicationstandards, such as 802.x, 3G, 4G, satellite (e.g., Iridium satellitebased network), HF, VHF, long term evolution (LTE), evolved high speedpacket access (HPSA+), and the like. For example, communication units208 that communicate according to satellite, HF, VHF, and the like canbe communicatively coupled to the first network 204. Similarly,communication units 208 that are communicatively coupled to the secondnetwork 206 can use communicate standards, such as 802.x, 3G, 4G,satellite, future standards, and/or the like.

In one aspect, the mobile network 202 can comprise a switching unit 210configured to switch between one or more of the communication units 208.For example, one or more of the communication units 208 can beconfigured to communicate through the first network 204, and one or moreof the communication units 208 can be configured to communicate throughthe second network 206. As another example, some of the communicationunits 208 can be configured to communicate on both (e.g., at the sametime, or in the alternative) the first network 204 and the secondnetwork 206. For example, communication units 208 that communicateaccording to satellite, HF, VHF, and the like can be communicativelycoupled to the first network 204. Similarly, communication units 208that are communicatively coupled to the second network 206 can usecommunicate standards, such as 802.x, 3G, 4G, satellite, futurestandards, and/or the like.

In one aspect, the switching unit 210 can select one or more of thecommunication units 208 to receive or transmit information. In oneaspect, the switching unit 210 can select the communication units 208according to selection rules. For example, the selection rules can bebased on type of communication, cost of communication, location of themobile network 202, time of communication, and the like. As anillustration, communication costs can be associated with thecommunication units 208. The communication costs can vary according tothe location of the mobile network 202. The switching unit 210 canselect the communication unit 208 such that communication is provided bythe communication unit 208 associated with the lowest cost. In oneaspect, different forms of data transmission have a cost associated witheach form of data transmission based on a “network” model. As anexample, the marginal costs for a user to access the user's own 802.1xWiFi network is typically very low. To transmit data via HF and/or VHF,a user operating a mobile network 102 of an aircraft will typically havea service contract with specialty providers such as SIDA and ARINC(e.g., location 238) to receive the data from the mobile network 202 andtransmit this data to the appropriate location (e.g., locations 222,226, 232, and 240). For cellular or satellite communications, users maybe bound to one or more service contracts with a range of mobile,satellite, or other communication providers which re-transmit datato/from the mobile network 202 to the appropriate location (e.g.,locations 222, 226, 232, and 240) via TCP/IP or other protocols. Thecost for transmission can vary based on the size of the data beingtransmitted and/or the contract that is negotiated with thecommunication provider. For non-WiFi communications, HF and VHF can, insome scenarios, provide the lowest costs for small packets ofinformation (e.g., kilobytes). For large packets of data (e.g.,Megabytes to Gigabytes), Wi-Fi can, in some scenarios, be the leastcostly method of transmission, followed by cellular as the next leastcostly method of transmission. In some scenarios, satellite can be themost expensive transmission method but can be available globally.

In one aspect, the mobile network 202 can comprise a commoncommunication network 212. The common communication network 212 can beconfigured to provide for communication according to a commoncommunication protocol. For example, the common communication protocolcan comprise an internet protocol or other similar communicationprotocol. The common communication network 212 can translate and/ortransmit communications from a variety of internal elements 213 locatedin the mobile network 202. For example, the mobile network 202 cancomprise a variety of internal elements, such as system elements 214,passenger (e.g., crew members, travelers) devices, and the like.Passenger devices can comprise televisions, portable computing devices(e.g., tablet device, laptops), mobile phones (e.g., smart phone), andthe like.

In one aspect, the mobile network 202 can comprise a communicationmanagement unit 216. For example, the communication management unit 216can be a server or other computing device. The communication managementunit 216 can be configured to provide communication to and from avariety of system elements 214. The system elements 214 can comprisehardware devices and/or software modules. In one aspect, the systemelements 214 can comprise devices used in the operation of the vehicle.The system elements 214 can be configured to communicate through avariety of protocols, such as internet protocol, Aircraft CommunicationsAddressing and Reporting System (ACARS) based protocols, and othersuitable protocols. The communication management unit 216 can beconfigured to translate a communication based on a first protocol to acommunication based on a second protocol, such as the commoncommunication protocol, and vice versa. As an illustration, the systemelements 214 can comprise a line replaceable unit, a travel controlsystem (e.g., flight management system), vehicle monitoring system(e.g., aircraft condition monitoring system), travel informationmanagement device (e.g., electronic flight bag), updating device (e.g.,automatic data scheduler, hydra application), and the like.

In one aspect, the communication management unit 216 can be configuredto provide information to and from the system elements 214 according toa variety networks, communication links, and/or networks. For example,one or more of the system elements 214 can be communicatively coupled tothe communication management unit 216 through a system network 217. Thesystem network 217 can comprise wireless and/or physical links. In oneaspect, one or more of the system elements 214 can be communicativelycoupled to the communication management unit 216. The communicationmanagement unit 216 can be communicatively coupled to one or more systemelements 214 through communication links, such as system bus lines,serial lines, radio link, and/or the like. The system network 217 can beconfigured to use additional security, such as encryption, pairing, wireshielding, and/or like to prevent unauthorized communication on ordisruption to the system network 217 and/or communication links 219.

In one aspect, the communication management unit 216 can be configuredto provide updates to system elements 214. For example, thecommunication management unit 216 can comprise the update unit 116 ofFIG. 1 . The communication management unit 216 can be configured toprevent unauthorized communication with the system elements 214. As anillustration, the communication management unit 216 can comprise thesecurity unit 118 of FIG. 1 .

As an illustration, the mobile network 202 can receive a communicationfrom one of the communication units 208. If the communication is for apassenger device, then the passenger device (e.g., internal element 213)can receive the communication based on the common communicationprotocol. If the communication is for a system element 214, thecommunication can be provided to the communication management unit 216based on the common communication protocol. Then, the communicationmanagement unit 216 can translate the communication to the systemelement 214 based on a protocol associated with the system element 214.

In one aspect, the system 200 can be configured to communicateinformation between the mobile network 202 and one or more remotelocations. For example, the mobile network 202 can be configured toreceive updates, such as data updates, software updates, and/or thelike. Data updates can comprise updated navigation data, such as flightroutes, weather information, waypoints, scheduling information,emergency communications, and/or the like. Software updates can compriseupdates to computer readable code used by a system element. The mobilenetwork 202 can be configured to provide information to remotelocations, such as flight data, weather data, geospatial data,elevation, speed, route information, emergency notifications, fuellevels, passenger information (e.g., data transmitted to and frompassengers), and/or the like.

In one aspect, the system 200 can be configured to provide updates tothe mobile network 202 from one or more remote locations. In one aspect,the system 200 can comprise a first update source 218. The first updatesource 218 can generate copies of updates onto a physical medium, suchas a compact disk, floppy disk, flash drive, or hard disk. The firstupdate source 218 can provide the updates by providing the updates toanother location, such as the first location 222. The system 200 canalso comprise a second update source 220. The second update source 220can provide access to updates through a remote server (e.g., updatedevice 224), such as a file transfer protocol server. The remote servercan allow users to connect to the server from another location through anetwork or communication link. For example, the user can be a device(e.g., mobile network 202), a technician operating a portable managementdevice 234 or other employee, a regulator, a service provider (e.g., anaircraft health-monitoring or engine health monitoring service), and/orthe like. The user can connect to the appropriate/approved serverlocations via TCP/IP to check for updates, upload data, download data,and/or the like. The user can access the server anywhere that the userhas an established data link. The list of appropriate/approved serverscan be based on the applications loaded on the communication managementunit 216, portable management device 234, or other approved devices.Personnel or vehicles with a need to access the various servers can begiven permission by an administrator through user policies andprocedures.

In one aspect, the system 200 can comprise a first location 222. Thefirst location 222 can receive updates from the first update source 218,the second update source 220, and/or other sources. For example, thefirst location 222 can receive updates on a physical medium through themail or other physical delivery method from the first update source 218.The first location 222 can access updates at the second update source220 through a file transfer protocol server at the second update source220. The first location 222 can receive updates from other sourcesthrough electronic messages, such as email, and the like.

In one aspect, the first location 222 can comprise an update device 224.For example, the update device 224 can comprise a server or othercomputing device. The update device 224 can be configured to store theupdates. The update device 224 can be configured to provide the updatesto the mobile network 202 through the second network 206. For example,the first location 222 can comprise a wireless communication unit 225, asatellite communication unit 227, or other communication device. Theupdate device 224 can provide updates to the mobile network 202. Theupdate device 224 can be configured to provide the updates according toa specified schedule. The update device 224 can be configured to storeinformation to provide on-demand updates to one or more devices of themobile network 202. For example, an update can be provided to a systemelement 214 in a maintenance scenario where a system element 214 or apart thereof is replaced. The update device 224 can be configured tobuffer and/or store information to prevent updates from beingtransmitted to the mobile network 202 while one or more system elements214 are performing operations critical to safe travel. The update device224 can be configured to manage and provide the updates when the one ormore system elements 214 that perform operations critical for safetravel are available to be updated (e.g., no longer performing anoperation critical to safe travel). The update device 224 can beconfigured to store information pending availability of communicationsbandwidth based on bandwidth availability and/or cost. The update device224 can be configured to host or otherwise implement one or more aspectsof the security unit 118 of FIG. 1 . The update device 224 can beconfigured to receive and aggregate information from one or more sources(e.g. weather and fuel information). In one aspect, the update device224 can be configured to provide the aggregated information, such as aproposed update to a travel plan of the mobile network 202. For example,an updated travel plan can be provided to a system element 214configured to manage travel.

In one aspect, the system 200 can comprise a second location 226. In oneaspect, the second location 226 can comprise a server 228. The secondlocation 226 can also comprise a database 230. The second location 226can be communicatively coupled to the second network 206. For example,the second location 226 can comprise a wireless communication unit 231.For example, the server 228, database 230, and wireless communicationunit 231 can be configured to separately and/or together perform thefollowing functions: capture and analyze data, report equipment errors,collect data for reporting to manufacturers or regulators, performpredictive analytics, serve as a gateway between other informationsystems (e.g., internet service providers, financial service providersfor customer transactions), monitor functions for shipping customers,and the like. In one aspect, devices at the second location 226 can bebehind a security layer (e.g., hardware and/or software that controlsaccess to information based on security rules) to protect data andinformation stored at the device. For example, the database 230 can beprotected by behind a security layer.

In one aspect, the system 200 can comprise a third location 232. In oneaspect, the third location 232 can comprise one or more owner operatorinternal networks. For example, the third location 232 can comprise aglobal operations control center (GOC). The global operations controlcenter can be configured to monitor and control the movements of one ormore mobile networks 202. For example, the GOC can collect geographiccoordinates, speed, acceleration, direction of travel, altitude, and/orthe like for one or more mobile networks 202. The third location 232 canalso comprise maintenance operations control devices, engineeringmanagement devices, flight management devices, weight and balancemanagement devices, ramp operations management devices, and the like.The third location 232 can be communicatively coupled to the firstnetwork 204 and the second network 206. For example, the third location232 can comprise a wireless communication unit 233 configured tocommunicate through the second network 206. The wireless communicationunit 233 can be configured to communicate according to IEEE 802 basedstandards. The third location 232 can also comprise a satellitecommunication unit 235 configured to communicate through the firstnetwork 204.

The system 200 can comprise a portable management device 234. Forexample, the portable management device 234 can be a tablet or otherportable computing device operated by personnel (e.g., aircraftmaintenance technician) associated with the mobile network 202. In oneaspect, the portable management device 234 can be communicativelycoupled to the mobile network 202 and other devices through the secondnetwork 206. The portable management device 234 can be used to receivesystem information from the mobile network 202, communicate updates tothe mobile network 202, perform other maintenance functions to themobile network 202, and the like.

In one aspect, the system 200 can also comprise additional locations.For example, the system 200 can comprise an air traffic control (ATC)location 236. The system 200 can also comprise an Aeronautical RadioIncorporated (ARINC) standard and/or a Société Internationale deTélécommunications Aéronautiques (SITA) standards based communicationlocation 238. The system 200 can also comprise a transport providernetwork location 240. These locations 236, 238, 240 can comprisecommunication devices that allow the mobile network 202 to communicatewith a variety of networks external to the mobile network 202. Forexample, the locations 236, 238, 240 can provide access to internetservice providers, or specialized services such as Air Traffic Control,ARINC, and/or SITA. The external networks and/or the mobile network 202can comprise a combined TCP/IP and/or non-TCP/IP network. As anillustration, the mobile network 202 can, while traveling, receiveinformation through internet protocol from one of the locations 236,238, 240. The mobile network 202 can transfer the information receivedthrough internet protocol to a system element 214, such as a transfercollision avoidance system (TCAS) via an ARINC standard basedcommunication interface (e.g., ARINC standard 615 data interface). Asanother illustration, the mobile network 202 can receive internetprotocol based data from a wireless device on board the mobile network202 (e.g., an EFB). The mobile network 202 can transmit the data via anon-IP based communication link, such as an ACARS VHF datalink.

As a third example, a system element 214, such as a Digital Flight DataAcquisition Unit (DFDAU) can provide real-time data about other systemelements to the communication management unit 216 via a communicationlink (e.g., or the system network 217 based on ARINC 717 or otherprotocol. The communication management unit 216 can convert this data,using protocols to a data format suitable for use by other applications.The communication management unit 216 can transmit the data across thecommon communication network 212 based on a TCP/IP stack for internetprotocol transmission. The switching unit 210 can receive the data anddetermine that a particular communication method (e.g., WiFi) is theleast costly routing of the data. The mobile network 202 can thentransmit the data via a communication unit 208 (e.g., an IEEE 802.11antenna) where the data is received by one or more locations and/ordevices, such as the portable management device 234, the first location222, and the second location 226, and/or the like for display of troubleshooting data.

FIG. 3 is a flowchart illustrating an exemplary method 300 forcommunicating information. At step 302, information can be received at afirst device based on a first protocol. The second protocol can compriseinternet protocol, transmission control protocol (TCP), internet controlmessage protocol (ICMP), user datagram protocol (UDP), AircraftCommunications and Reporting System (ACARS) protocol, an ARINC protocol,or other similar protocol. In one aspect, the information can comprisean update for a second device, (e.g., a system element of atransportation device), a request (e.g., for information, to perform atask), a message, a notification, and/or the like. The update cancomprise an update to data stored at the second device and/or an updateto software modules (e.g., computer readable code) of the second device.

At step 304, it can be determined whether the information matches acriterion associated with a transportation device. The criterion be acriterion of and/or associated with a security rule, update rule, and/orthe like.

For example, determining whether the information matches the criterionassociated with the transportation device can comprise evaluating anupdate rule associated with the transportation device. In one aspect,the update rule can specify at least one of a timing condition forapplying the update to the second device, a location condition forapplying the update to the second device, a cost condition for applyingthe update to the second device, and the like. A timing condition cancomprise a condition specifying a time range when an update can and/orcannot be applied to one or more devices (e.g., the second device). Alocation condition can comprise a condition specifying a location (e.g.,geographic area, elevation) and/or operation status (e.g., parked,traveling, in flight, maintenance, emergency procedure) of thetransportation device. A cost condition can comprise a conditionspecifying a cost range, maximum cost, and/or the like for a variety ofusers and/or criticality of a transmission.

As another example, determining whether the information matches thecriterion associated with the transportation device can comprisedetermining whether the information is authorized or unauthorized basedon a security rule associated with the transportation device. A securityrule can comprise a rule specifying types of users and/or devices thatare authorized to supply an update to a device. A security rule cancomprise a rule specifying a type of encryption, credentials, handshakeprocess, and/or the like. The security rule can be associated with alocation rule. For example, security rules can specify locations and/oroperational status (e.g., currently traveling, maintenance mode) thatcertain security rules are applicable. A security rule can also comprisea rule requiring the information to be verified by a checksum process orother data integrity verification process.

If it is determined that the information matches the criterion, then themethod can proceed to step 308. If it is determined that the informationdoes not match the criterion, then the method 300 can proceed to step306.

At step 306, the information can be discarded. In one aspect, an errormessage or other similar notification can be provided to the requestingdevice and/or other devices. In another aspect, a record can be stored(e.g., locally or remotely) indicating that the information wasdiscarded and one or more reasons (e.g., error codes) indicating why theinformation was discarded.

At step 308, the information can be translated (e.g., at the firstdevice) for communication to a second device based on a second protocol.The second protocol can comprise internet protocol, transmission controlprotocol (TCP), internet control message protocol (ICMP), user datagramprotocol (UDP), Aircraft Communications and Reporting System (ACARS)protocol, an ARINC protocol, or other similar protocol. For example, thefirst protocol can comprise one of an internet protocol and an AircraftCommunications Addressing and Reporting System (ACARS) protocol and thesecond protocol can comprise the other of the internet protocol and theACARS protocol. As another example, the first protocol can comprise atleast one of an internet protocol, an Aeronautical Radio, Incorporated(ARINC) protocol, and an Aircraft Communications Addressing andReporting System (ACARS) protocol and the second protocol can compriseat least one of a remaining protocol of the internet protocol, ARINCprotocol, and the ACARS protocol. Translation can comprise removingformatting (e.g., packaging) of the first protocol from the informationand applying formatting of the second protocol to the information.

At step 310, the information can be provided to the second device basedon the second protocol and a determination that the information matchesthe criterion. providing the information to the second device based onthe second protocol can comprise applying the update to the seconddevice based on the information matching a criterion, such one specifiedby an update rule, security rule (e.g., if the information is authorizedunder the security rule), and/or other rule.

In one aspect, the first device and the second device can be componentsof the transportation device. The transportation device can comprise anaircraft, a boat, a ground vehicle, and/or the like. The transportationdevice can be manned or unmanned. In one aspect, the first device cancomprise a computing device, such as a server, gateway, and/or the like.The first device can comprise the communication management unit 215 ofFIG. 2 and/or CTMU 106 of FIG. 1 . In one aspect, the second device cancomprise an internal element (e.g., internal element 114 of FIG. 1and/or internal element 213 of FIG. 2 ) and/or a system element (e.g.,system element 214 of FIG. 2 ) of the transportation device, such as aflight management system, an aircraft condition monitoring system, anelectronic flight bag, a line replaceable unit, and/or the like.

FIG. 4 is a flowchart illustrating another exemplary method 400 forcommunicating information. At step 402, information can be received at atransportation device. The transportation device can comprise anaircraft, a boat, a ground vehicle, and/or the like. The information cancomprise an update to the system element, a request (e.g., forinformation, to perform a task), a message, a notification, and/or thelike. The update can comprise an update to data stored at the systemelement and/or an update to software modules (e.g., computer readablecode) of the system element.

At step 404, the information can be provided to a first network of thetransportation device based on a first protocol. For example, the firstnetwork can comprise the first network 110 of FIG. 1 and/or the commoncommunication network 212 of FIG. 2 . The first protocol can compriseinternet protocol, transmission control protocol (TCP), internet controlmessage protocol (ICMP), user datagram protocol (UDP), AircraftCommunications and Reporting System (ACARS) protocol, an ARINC protocol,or other similar protocol.

At step 406, the information can be analyzed (e.g., at a component ofthe first network) based on at least one of a security rule and anupdate rule. Analyzing the information can comprise determining whetherthe information is authorized or unauthorized for the system element. Inone aspect, the component of the first network can comprise a computingdevice, such as a router, switch, server, gateway, and/or the like. Thecomponent of the first network can comprise the communication managementunit 215 of FIG. 2 and/or the CTMU 106 of FIG. 1 .

As an example, the update rule can specify at least one of a timingcondition for applying an update to the system element, a locationcondition for applying the update to the system element, a costcondition for applying the update to the system element, and the like. Atiming condition can comprise a condition specifying a time range whenan update can and/or cannot be applied to one or more devices (e.g., thesecond device). A location condition can comprise a condition specifyinga location (e.g., geographic area, elevation) and/or operation status(e.g., parked, traveling, in flight, maintenance, emergency procedure)of the transportation device. A cost condition can comprise a conditionspecifying a cost range, maximum cost, and/or the like for a variety ofusers and/or criticality of a transmission.

At step 408, the information can be provided to a system element (e.g.,internal element 214 of FIG. 1 , internal element 213 and/or systemelement 214 of FIG. 2 ) of the transportation device based on theanalyzing of the information. In one aspect, the system element cancomprise at least one of a flight management system, an aircraftcondition monitoring system, and an electronic flight bag. In oneaspect, the information can be provided to the system element if theinformation is authorized. In one aspect, the information can betranslated (e.g., at the component) for communication to a systemelement (e.g., based on a second protocol). Translation can compriseremoving formatting (e.g., packaging) of the first protocol from theinformation and applying formatting of the second protocol or otherstandard to the information.

Alternatively, the information can be discarded. In one aspect, an errormessage or other similar notification can be provided to the requestingdevice and/or other devices. In another aspect, a record can be stored(e.g., locally or remotely) indicating that the information wasdiscarded and one or more reasons (e.g., error codes) indicating why theinformation was discarded.

In one aspect, the information can be provided to the system elementthrough a second network of the transportation device based on a secondprotocol. The second protocol can comprise internet protocol,transmission control protocol (TCP), internet control message protocol(ICMP), user datagram protocol (UDP), Aircraft Communications andReporting System (ACARS) protocol, an ARINC protocol, or other similarprotocol. For example, the first protocol can comprise one of aninternet protocol and an Aircraft Communications Addressing andReporting System (ACARS) protocol and the second protocol comprises theother of the internet protocol and the ACARS protocol. As anotherexample, the first protocol can comprise at least one of an internetprotocol, an Aeronautical Radio Incorporated (ARINC) protocol, and anAircraft Communications Addressing and Reporting System (ACARS) protocoland the second protocol can comprise at least one of a remainingprotocol of the internet protocol, ARINC protocol, and the ACARSprotocol.

At step 410, it can be verified (e.g., if the information is analyzedbased on the update rule) that the update is applied to the systemelement according to the update rule. For example, the one or more testscan be run on the system element to determine data integrity, systemfunctionality, and/or the like.

In an exemplary aspect, the methods and systems can be implemented on acomputer 501 as illustrated in FIG. 5 and described below. By way ofexample, communications traffic management unit 106 of FIG. 1 can be acomputer as illustrated in FIG. 5 . Similarly, the methods and systemsdisclosed can utilize one or more computers to perform one or morefunctions in one or more locations. FIG. 5 is a block diagramillustrating an exemplary operating environment for performing thedisclosed methods. This exemplary operating environment is only anexample of an operating environment and is not intended to suggest anylimitation as to the scope of use or functionality of operatingenvironment architecture. Neither should the operating environment beinterpreted as having any dependency or requirement relating to any oneor combination of components illustrated in the exemplary operatingenvironment.

The present methods and systems can be operational with numerous othergeneral purpose or special purpose computing system environments orconfigurations. Examples of well-known computing systems, environments,and/or configurations that can be suitable for use with the systems andmethods comprise, but are not limited to, personal computers, servercomputers, laptop devices, and multiprocessor systems. Additionalexamples comprise set top boxes, programmable consumer electronics,network PCs, minicomputers, mainframe computers, distributed computingenvironments that comprise any of the above systems or devices, and thelike.

The processing of the disclosed methods and systems can be performed bysoftware components. The disclosed systems and methods can be describedin the general context of computer-executable instructions, such asprogram modules, being executed by one or more computers or otherdevices. Generally, program modules comprise computer code, routines,programs, objects, components, data structures, etc. that performparticular tasks or implement particular abstract data types. Thedisclosed methods can also be practiced in grid-based and distributedcomputing environments where tasks are performed by remote processingdevices that are linked through a communications network. In adistributed computing environment, program modules can be located inboth local and remote computer storage media including memory storagedevices.

Further, one skilled in the art will appreciate that the systems andmethods disclosed herein can be implemented via a general-purposecomputing device in the form of a computer 501. The components of thecomputer 501 can comprise, but are not limited to, one or moreprocessors 503, a system memory 512, and a system bus 513 that couplesvarious system components including the one or more processors 503 tothe system memory 512. In one aspect, the system can utilize parallelcomputing.

The system bus 513 represents one or more of several possible types ofbus structures, including a memory bus or memory controller, aperipheral bus, an accelerated graphics port, and a processor or localbus using any of a variety of bus architectures. By way of example, sucharchitectures can comprise an Industry Standard Architecture (ISA) bus,a Micro Channel Architecture (MCA) bus, an Enhanced ISA (EISA) bus, aVideo Electronics Standards Association (VESA) local bus, an AcceleratedGraphics Port (AGP) bus, and a Peripheral Component Interconnects (PCI),a PCI-Express bus, a Personal Computer Memory Card Industry Association(PCMCIA), Universal Serial Bus (USB) and the like. The system bus 513,and all buses specified in this description can also be implemented overa wired or wireless network connection and each of the subsystems,including the one or more processors 503, a mass storage device 504, anoperating system 505, transport communications software 506, transportcommunications data 507, a network adapter 508, system memory 512, anInput/Output Interface 510, a display adapter 509, a display device 511,and a human machine interface 502, can be contained within one or moreremote computing devices 514 a,b,c at physically separate locations,connected through buses of this form, in effect implementing a fullydistributed system.

The computer 501 typically comprises a variety of computer readablemedia. Exemplary readable media can be any available media that isaccessible by the computer 501 and comprises, for example and not meantto be limiting, both volatile and non-volatile media, removable andnon-removable media. The system memory 512 comprises computer readablemedia in the form of volatile memory, such as random access memory(RAM), and/or non-volatile memory, such as read only memory (ROM). Thesystem memory 512 typically contains data such as transportcommunications data 507 and/or program modules such as operating system505 and transport communications software 506 that are immediatelyaccessible to and/or are presently operated on by the one or moreprocessors 503.

In another aspect, the computer 501 can also comprise otherremovable/non-removable, volatile/non-volatile computer storage media.By way of example, FIG. 5 illustrates a mass storage device 504 whichcan provide non-volatile storage of computer code, computer readableinstructions, data structures, program modules, and other data for thecomputer 501. For example and not meant to be limiting, a mass storagedevice 504 can be a hard disk, a removable magnetic disk, a removableoptical disk, magnetic cassettes or other magnetic storage devices,flash memory cards, CD-ROM, digital versatile disks (DVD) or otheroptical storage, random access memories (RAM), read only memories (ROM),electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM), and thelike.

Optionally, any number of program modules can be stored on the massstorage device 504, including by way of example, an operating system 505and transport communications software 506. Each of the operating system505 and transport communications software 506 (or some combinationthereof) can comprise elements of the programming and the transportcommunications software 506. Transport communications data 507 can alsobe stored on the mass storage device 504. Transport communications data507 can be stored in any of one or more databases known in the art.Examples of such databases comprise, DB2®, Microsoft® Access, Microsoft®SQL Server, Oracle®, mySQL, PostgreSQL, and the like. The databases canbe centralized or distributed across multiple systems.

In another aspect, the user can enter commands and information into thecomputer 501 via an input device (not shown). Examples of such inputdevices comprise, but are not limited to, a keyboard, pointing device(e.g., a “mouse”), a microphone, a joystick, a scanner, tactile inputdevices such as gloves, and other body coverings, and the like These andother input devices can be connected to the one or more processors 503via a human machine interface 502 that is coupled to the system bus 513,but can be connected by other interface and bus structures, such as aparallel port, game port, an IEEE 1394 Port (also known as a Firewireport), a serial port, or a universal serial bus (USB).

In yet another aspect, a display device 511 can also be connected to thesystem bus 513 via an interface, such as a display adapter 509. It iscontemplated that the computer 501 can have more than one displayadapter 509 and the computer 501 can have more than one display device511. For example, a display device can be a monitor, an LCD (LiquidCrystal Display), or a projector. In addition to the display device 511,other output peripheral devices can comprise components such as speakers(not shown) and a printer (not shown) which can be connected to thecomputer 501 via Input/Output Interface 510. Any step and/or result ofthe methods can be output in any form to an output device. Such outputcan be any form of visual representation, including, but not limited to,textual, graphical, animation, audio, tactile, and the like. The displaydevice 511 and computer 501 can be part of one device, or separatedevices.

The computer 501 can operate in a networked environment using logicalconnections to one or more remote computing devices 514 a,b,c. By way ofexample, a remote computing device can be a personal computer, portablecomputer, smartphone, a server, a router, a network computer, a peerdevice or other common network node, and so on. Logical connectionsbetween the computer 501 and a remote computing device 514 a,b,c can bemade via a network 515, such as a local area network (LAN) and/or ageneral wide area network (WAN). Such network connections can be througha network adapter 508. A network adapter 508 can be implemented in bothwired and wireless environments. Such networking environments areconventional and commonplace in dwellings, offices, enterprise-widecomputer networks, intranets, and the Internet.

For purposes of illustration, application programs and other executableprogram components such as the operating system 505 are illustratedherein as discrete blocks, although it is recognized that such programsand components reside at various times in different storage componentsof the computer 501, and are executed by the data processor(s) of thecomputer. An implementation of transport communications software 506 canbe stored on or transmitted across some form of computer readable media.Any of the disclosed methods can be performed by computer readableinstructions embodied on computer readable media. Computer readablemedia can be any available media that can be accessed by a computer. Byway of example and not meant to be limiting, computer readable media cancomprise “computer storage media” and “communications media.” “Computerstorage media” comprise volatile and non-volatile, removable andnon-removable media implemented in any methods or technology for storageof information such as computer readable instructions, data structures,program modules, or other data. Exemplary computer storage mediacomprises, but is not limited to, RAM, ROM, EEPROM, flash memory orother memory technology, CD-ROM, digital versatile disks (DVD) or otheroptical storage, magnetic cassettes, magnetic tape, magnetic diskstorage or other magnetic storage devices, or any other medium which canbe used to store the desired information and which can be accessed by acomputer.

The methods and systems can employ artificial intelligence techniquessuch as machine learning and iterative learning. Examples of suchtechniques include, but are not limited to, expert systems, case basedreasoning, Bayesian networks, behavior based AI, neural networks, fuzzysystems, evolutionary computation (e.g. genetic algorithms), swarmintelligence (e.g. ant algorithms), and hybrid intelligent systems (e.g.Expert inference rules generated through a neural network or productionrules from statistical learning).

While the methods and systems have been described in connection withpreferred embodiments and specific examples, it is not intended that thescope be limited to the particular embodiments set forth, as theembodiments herein are intended in all respects to be illustrativerather than restrictive.

Throughout this application, various publications are referenced. Thedisclosures of these publications in their entireties are herebyincorporated by reference into this application in order to more fullydescribe the state of the art to which the methods and systems pertain.

Unless otherwise expressly stated, it is in no way intended that anymethod set forth herein be construed as requiring that its steps beperformed in a specific order. Accordingly, where a method claim doesnot actually recite an order to be followed by its steps or it is nototherwise specifically stated in the claims or descriptions that thesteps are to be limited to a specific order, it is no way intended thatan order be inferred, in any respect. This holds for any possiblenon-express basis for interpretation, including: matters of logic withrespect to arrangement of steps or operational flow; plain meaningderived from grammatical organization or punctuation; the number or typeof embodiments described in the specification.

It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that variousmodifications and variations can be made without departing from thescope or spirit. Other embodiments will be apparent to those skilled inthe art from consideration of the specification and practice disclosedherein. It is intended that the specification and examples be consideredas exemplary only, with a true scope and spirit being indicated by thefollowing claims.

What is claimed is:
 1. A method comprising: receiving information at afirst device based on a first protocol; translating the information, atthe first device, for communication to a second device of an aircraftusing a second protocol; determining, based on a relevancy of the seconddevice to operate the aircraft, a criterion associated with theaircraft, wherein the criterion comprises one or more of a security ruleassociated with the aircraft or an update rule associated with theaircraft; determining that the information satisfies the criterionassociated with the aircraft; and responsive to a determination that theinformation satisfies the criterion, providing the information to thesecond device using the second protocol.
 2. The method of claim 1,wherein the first device and the second device are components of theaircraft.
 3. The method of claim 1, wherein the second device comprisesat least one of a flight management system, an aircraft conditionmonitoring system, or an electronic flight bag of the aircraft.
 4. Themethod of claim 1, wherein the information comprises an update for thesecond device, wherein determining that the information satisfies thecriterion associated with the aircraft comprises evaluating the updaterule associated with the aircraft, and wherein providing the informationto the second device using the second protocol comprises applying theupdate to the second device based on the update rule associated with theaircraft.
 5. The method of claim 4, wherein the update rule associatedwith the aircraft specifies at least one of a timing condition forapplying the update to the second device, a location condition forapplying the update to the second device, or a cost condition forapplying the update to the second device.
 6. The method of claim 1,wherein determining that the information satisfies the criterionassociated with the aircraft comprises determining whether theinformation is authorized or unauthorized based on the security rule,and wherein providing, based on the security rule, the information tothe second device using the second protocol comprises sending theinformation to the second device according to the second protocol if theinformation is authorized.
 7. The method of claim 1, wherein the firstprotocol comprises at least one of an internet protocol, an AeronauticalRadio Incorporated (ARINC) protocol, or an Aircraft CommunicationsAddressing and Reporting System (ACARS) protocol and the second protocolcomprises at least one of a remaining protocol of the internet protocol,ARINC protocol, or the ACARS protocol.
 8. A method comprising: receivinginformation at an aircraft; providing the information to a first networkof the aircraft based on a first protocol; determining, based on arelevancy of an aircraft system element to operate the aircraft, atleast one of a security rule associated with the aircraft or an updaterule associated with the aircraft, wherein the information is intendedfor the aircraft system element; analyzing the information, at acomponent of the first network of the aircraft, based on the at leastone of the security rule or the update rule; and providing theinformation to the aircraft system element of the aircraft based on theanalyzing of the information.
 9. The method of claim 8, whereinanalyzing the information based on the at least one of the security ruleor the update rule comprises determining whether the information isauthorized or unauthorized for the aircraft system element, wherein theinformation is provided to the aircraft system element if theinformation is authorized.
 10. The method of claim 8, wherein theinformation is provided to the aircraft system element through a secondnetwork of the aircraft based on a second protocol.
 11. The method ofclaim 10, wherein the first protocol comprises at least one of aninternet protocol, an Aeronautical Radio, Incorporated (ARINC) protocol,or an Aircraft Communications Addressing and Reporting System (ACARS)protocol and the second protocol comprises at least one of a remainingprotocol of the internet protocol, ARINC protocol, or the ACARSprotocol.
 12. The method of claim 8, wherein the aircraft system elementcomprises at least one of a flight management system, an aircraftcondition monitoring system, or an electronic flight bag.
 13. The methodof claim 8, wherein the update rule specifies at least one of a timingcondition for applying an update to the aircraft system element, alocation condition for applying the update to the aircraft systemelement, or a cost condition for applying the update to the aircraftsystem element.
 14. The method of claim 8, wherein the informationcomprises an update to the aircraft system element, the method furthercomprising verifying that the update is applied to the aircraft systemelement according to the update rule.
 15. An aircraft, comprising: anaircraft system element configured to assist in navigation of theaircraft; a first network configured to communicate based on a firstprotocol; a second network configured to communicate based on a secondprotocol, wherein the second network is communicatively coupled to theaircraft system element; and a communication management devicecommunicatively coupled to the first network and the second network,wherein the communication management device is configured to: determine,based on a relevancy of the aircraft system element to operate theaircraft, at least one of a security rule associated with the aircraftor an update rule associated with the aircraft; and translateinformation between the first network and the second network based onthe at least one of the security rule or the update rule.
 16. Theaircraft of claim 15, further comprising a selection device configuredto select one or more transceivers and provide the information from theselected one or more transceivers to the first network.
 17. The aircraftof claim 15, wherein the aircraft system element comprises at least oneof a flight management system, an aircraft condition monitoring system,or an electronic flight bag.
 18. The aircraft of claim 15, wherein theupdate rule specifies at least one of a timing condition for applying anupdate to the aircraft system element, a location condition for applyingthe update to the aircraft system element, or a cost condition forapplying the update to the aircraft system element.
 19. The aircraft ofclaim 15, wherein the communication management device is configured to:determine, based on the security rule, whether the information receivedfrom the first network is authorized or unauthorized for the aircraftsystem element and discard the information if the information isunauthorized for the aircraft system element.
 20. The aircraft of claim15, wherein the communication management device is further configured toverify, based on the update rule, that an update is applied to theaircraft system element.